Tech Tues.: ITB Re-Amping Tips with UAD Plugins

Softube Bass Amp Room

If you don't have access to real amp stacks in a great sounding studio then ITB re-amping is an alternative way to enhance and liven tracks. I use this method often when mixing if I feel it's necessary for the mix to reach its full potential. The video below shows 3 excellent UAD plugins that can be used to re-amp bass tracks. This method works great with samples and VSTis too. In addition you can setup a microphone in front of your monitors and record to a new track. Make sure to mute the return of the new track to avoid feedback and hit record while playing the track in solo through your monitors at a reasonably loud level. The combination of the amp plugins combined with the speakers moving air in your room can really bring a track to life.

Ampeg SVT-VR

Ampeg SVT-3 PRO

Here's the re-amping video tutorial by Michael ( Thanks Michael) of Studio One Expert showing how to use the Universal Audio’s Ampeg SVT-VR, Ampeg SVT-3 PRO and Softube Bass Amp Room on a bass track in PreSonus Studio One 3.

I usually use the Softube Bass Amp Room but have started experimenting with the others. The combination of all 3 offers so many sonic possibilities. I like to use busses instead of copying the tracks and send them all to the same aux master then mix and match to taste. 

The UAD Pultec Passive Eq Collection that's currently on sale for $99 works great to further enhance the sound of the tracks. 

UAD Pultec Passive Eq Collection

This method is not just for bass and works really well on all types of sounds using any plugins you choose. For example I used The Chandler Limited GAV19T Amplifier Plug-In to add grit and presence to a live organ track that was well recorded but wasn't sitting properly in the mix. Worked like a charm.

The Chandler Limited GAV19T Amplifier Plug-In